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15 Mudroom-Closet Combos That Streamline Your Entryway

August 3, 2025
Bright, modern mudroom-closet combo with custom built-in cabinetry in a warm white, natural wood bench, matte black hooks, and a large round mirror above the bench. Clean tile flooring in neutral tones, a woven basket with rolled towels, and a hanging coat.

Introduction: Where Style Meets Everyday Utility

A well-designed entryway does more than just welcome you home — it’s the command center for daily comings and goings. And for many households, especially those juggling kids, pets, groceries, and gear, the mudroom-closet combo has emerged as the ultimate entryway solution. These hybrid spaces blend aesthetic charm with practical storage, taming clutter while offering a warm, stylish greeting.

Whether you’re working with a dedicated mudroom, a compact hallway, or an underutilized alcove, the right design can completely transform how you move through your home. In this article, we’ve curated 15 standout mudroom-closet designs that prove you don’t need a massive space to make a major impact.

[Hero Image Placeholder: Bright, modern mudroom-closet combo with custom built-in cabinetry, natural wood bench, and warm light]

1. Minimalist Entry Bench Wall

Minimalist mudroom wall with built-in light wood bench, open cubbies below, vertical white shiplap backdrop, and three matte black metal hooks. One beige tote bag and a neutral coat hang from the hooks. Pale stone tile flooring, a pair of white sneakers placed neatly under the bench. Clean, airy natural light.

Simple doesn’t mean boring — in fact, a minimalist mudroom wall can be one of the most calming features in your home. This style uses a built-in bench with clean lines, cubbies below for shoes or bins, and a few matte black hooks mounted against crisp vertical shiplap. The result? A tidy, modern nook that keeps chaos at bay.

This look works especially well in Scandinavian-inspired homes or for anyone who appreciates a “less is more” aesthetic. A neutral palette, natural wood finishes, and functional lighting complete the look.

2. Classic White Shaker Cabinets with Hooks

Elegant mudroom space featuring tall white shaker-style cabinets with brass hardware, a central bench nook with hooks above, soft striped cushion on the bench, and warm lighting. A small runner rug in muted grey and ivory tones grounds the space. One pair of leather boots neatly placed under the bench.

If your taste leans timeless, consider a traditional white shaker cabinet setup with integrated mudroom features. A central bench offers seating and under-bench storage, while brass hooks add elegance and easy access to daily essentials. Tall cabinets on either side provide closed storage for bulkier items like coats, sports gear, or cleaning supplies.

This layout brings the polish of a custom closet with the functionality of a well-organized entry station.

3. Vertical Locker-Style Closets for Each Family Member

Functional mudroom with four vertical locker-style cabinets, each labeled with a family member’s name. Cubbies on top, hanging space in the middle, and drawers below. Natural oak wood, soft white interior. Bench seat across the bottom with personalized backpacks and rain boots stored neatly.

For busy families, personalized locker-style units are a game-changer. Give each household member a tall vertical space with a nameplate, a hanging rod, top cubby, and lower drawer or shoe bin. It makes morning routines smoother and gives kids a sense of ownership over their own space.

Durable finishes and wipeable surfaces are key here. You can even build in charging stations or backpack hooks inside each locker for added efficiency.

4. Hidden Mudroom Closet Behind Sliding Barn Door

Compact mudroom closet hidden behind a reclaimed wood sliding barn door. Inside: white-painted interior with three coat hooks, a narrow bench with a grey cushion, and a single umbrella stand. The barn door is partially open, revealing a tidy, functional nook.

Not all homes have room for a dedicated mudroom — and that’s where clever concealment comes in. A sliding barn door adds character and keeps clutter out of sight when guests arrive. Inside, a compact closet nook can house coats, boots, umbrellas, and even seasonal storage.

This is a great option for entryways that lead directly into living spaces or open-concept layouts where you want to preserve visual calm.

5. Scandinavian-Inspired Neutral Tones

Scandinavian-style mudroom with natural oak built-ins, black metal accents, and a floating bench with a neutral beige cushion. Matte tile floor, soft white walls, a simple coat rack, and a touch of greenery in a ceramic planter. Bright daylight and clean styling.

Scandi style is beloved for its ability to combine utility with warmth. In this layout, you’ll find light oak or ash wood cabinetry, matte black accents, and plenty of breathing room between storage zones. A floating bench paired with integrated wall hooks keeps the look grounded without overcrowding the wall.

Add subtle textures like a wool cushion, linen wall organizer, or pebble-pattern tile to bring dimension to the soft neutral palette.

6. Open-Shelf Entry Nook with Basket Storage

Budget-friendly mudroom nook with four open wooden cubbies filled with labeled woven baskets, floating shelf above with books and a small potted plant. Hooks mounted under the shelf holding a sun hat and a canvas bag. Clean, painted wall in pale taupe.

If you’re organizing on a budget — or just prefer a more casual setup — open shelving with labeled baskets offers style and simplicity. Use wood or metal wall brackets to support open cubbies, with decorative bins that can hold gloves, hats, or pet supplies.

Hooks can be mounted beneath the lowest shelf, making everything within arm’s reach. This setup is especially helpful in homes with kids, since it allows for easy access and quick cleanup.

7. High-Contrast Modern Mudroom Closet

Modern mudroom with striking black cabinetry, gold handles, and white walls. Built-in bench with a patterned cushion, checkerboard tile flooring, and a graphic black-and-white print hanging above. Shoe storage tucked neatly below bench.

Love bold design? A high-contrast palette can make your mudroom closet feel more like a gallery moment than a storage zone. Think black cabinetry with gold or brass hardware, a graphic floor tile, and modern lighting.

This look works well in contemporary or urban-style homes where visual impact matters. A patterned cushion or bold art print above the bench keeps the vibe elevated.

8. Compact Mudroom Under Staircase

Creative mudroom built under a staircase: floating wood bench, matte black coat hooks, white shiplap walls, and small storage bins tucked to the side. A cozy pillow on the bench and a small wall sconce for accent lighting.

Don’t underestimate awkward spaces — they might just be your next great mudroom. The area under a staircase is perfect for a small bench, mounted hooks, and a few floating shelves or drawers. Painted paneling or wallpapered walls can bring a sense of finish to this tucked-away area.

This setup is perfect for apartments, smaller homes, or anyone looking to maximize every square foot.

9. Transitional Style with Beadboard and Baskets

Charming transitional mudroom with beadboard paneling painted soft grey, a white built-in bench with pull-out drawers, and three large woven rattan baskets tucked under the seat. Brass hooks line the wall above the bench, and a pair of neutral-toned coats hang neatly.

For a look that bridges classic and contemporary, beadboard is a versatile design choice. Painted in muted neutrals, it provides texture without clutter. Pair it with a built-in bench, brass or black hooks, and structured rattan baskets to hold out-of-sight items.

Lighting plays a key role here — try a wall sconce or overhead pendant to create a warm and welcoming vibe.

10. Boho Vibes with Patterned Tile and Open Closet Rails

Boho-inspired mudroom with vibrant Moroccan-style patterned tile floor, an open hanging rail with a draped linen robe, rustic wood shelf with folded textiles and potted cactus. A pair of rattan baskets on the floor and a fringed wall hanging complete the look.

Boho-style mudrooms trade cabinets for open rails and shelves. This makes the space feel breezier and more flexible. A patterned tile floor anchors the aesthetic while plants, fringe, or macrame details add softness.

Perfect for creative personalities and style-forward households, this layout shines when curated intentionally — think select items on display rather than a drop zone free-for-all.

11. Elegant Mudroom Closet in a Hallway Alcove

Sophisticated hallway alcove transformed into a mudroom with built-in narrow storage, soft white cabinetry, a tall vertical mirror, hooks for coats, and a small bench with a drawer. Muted herringbone tile floor and clean white trim add polish.

Even the smallest hallway can become a storage solution with the right design. A recessed alcove can house a narrow bench, a tall mirror for last-minute outfit checks, and slimline cabinetry. Keep the palette light and uniform to enhance the sense of space.

This is a great upgrade for anyone whose front door opens directly into a hallway or narrow corridor.

12. Double-Sided Entry Closet with Central Bench

Symmetrical mudroom layout with full-height closets on both sides of a central bench. The bench has overhead cubbies and under-seat drawers, finished in warm wood tones with black handles. Soft spotlighting illuminates the built-in unit.

For homes with extra square footage near the entry, this symmetrical design creates a high-end feel. Tall closets or shelving units on both sides frame a central bench, creating a cozy dressing area with lots of storage.

This layout works well in mudrooms shared by two households, or homes where both sides of a hallway can be repurposed.

13. Entryway Mudroom with Pet Station

Pet-friendly mudroom with a built-in bench above a cozy pet bed nook, coat hooks above, and a small shelf stocked with pet leashes, treats, and supplies. Mud-friendly flooring and a towel draped over a hook suggest function meets comfort.

Pet owners know the pain of muddy paws and tangled leashes. A mudroom-closet combo with a designated pet station makes things easier. Include a nook for a pet bed or crate, leash hooks, and a cubby for toys or food.

Materials like waterproof flooring and washable cushions help keep things fresh — and it makes your pets feel like part of the family’s routine.

14. Laundry-Adjacent Mudroom Closet

Combination laundry-mudroom with soft grey cabinets, washer and dryer on one side, mudroom bench and hanging space on the other. Folded towels on shelves, woven laundry bins below, and a coat hanging beside a small houseplant.

Some of the best mudroom spaces live in dual-purpose rooms. If your laundry area sits near an exterior door, consider adding mudroom features like a bench, cubbies, and a coat rack. You’ll simplify dirty laundry drop-offs and keep outdoor mess from spreading through the home.

To tie it all together, use cohesive cabinetry, shared color palettes, and multipurpose lighting.

15. Glam Farmhouse Mudroom Closet Combo

Glam farmhouse entryway featuring crisp white cabinetry with black iron hardware, reclaimed wood bench, plaid cushion, and mosaic patterned tile floor. A narrow vertical mirror and a vintage-style lantern light fixture elevate the space.

Farmhouse meets function in this final style. Clean white cabinetry pairs with rustic wood textures and cozy textiles like a plaid bench cushion or jute rug. Iron hardware gives a grounded, heritage feel while staying on-trend.

This design works well in transitional homes or anywhere you’re aiming for warmth with a bit of polish.

Final Thoughts: Designing Your Own Mudroom-Closet Combo

Whether your entryway is large and lofty or small and narrow, these designs show that thoughtful mudroom-closet combinations can elevate your home’s organization — and style — tenfold.

As you plan your own layout, consider:

  • Daily use: Who’s using the space and what do they need easy access to?
  • Traffic patterns: Ensure there’s space to move through comfortably.
  • Materials: Prioritize durability — especially for flooring, finishes, and hardware.
  • Storage layers: Combine open and closed storage for balance.
  • Lighting: Add task lighting, especially in enclosed or narrow areas.

The best designs aren’t just about storage — they make coming and going feel better. And with so many styles and solutions available, there’s no reason your entryway can’t be one of the most beautiful and efficient rooms in your home.

Wide-angle shot of a modern farmhouse entryway mudroom with built-in storage for shoes, bags, and coats. Light oak cabinetry, woven storage baskets, indoor greenery, and a “Welcome Home” sign overhead. A natural jute rug anchors the space. The area looks cozy, lived-in, and ready for all seasons